Inner Sunset

The natives who grew up in San Francisco remember the Sunset District as a sleepy corner of the city. The Sunset District real estate was made up of Edwardian and contemporary flats, condominiums and apartments. Some of the businesses that made the Inner Sunset a quiet destination are still going strong, including Pasquale's Pizzeria, Tart to Tart and Yancy’s Saloon.

Originally called The Outside Lands, the Sunset began as sand and scrub, but was built out along the Golden Gate Park when it was established in the 1890s. Through the latter half of the twentieth century, residents here were historically long-time locals and UCSF students. The dot com boom in the late 90s brought a large white collar crowd who took advantage of the N Judah train that would bring them downtown. This migration also brought an influx of money, new shops and great restaurants, most of which are still centered near 9th and Irving Streets in the Inner Sunset.

Its impressive how many good eateries can be packed into such a small area. Consider Indian at Naan 'N' Curry, Mexican at Gordo Taqueria, Japanese at Ebisu and Hotei, Italian at Milano Pizzeria and Villa Romana, Thai at Marnee Thai, fusion at Park Chow, Pacific Catch and Pomelo, good old American at Pluto’s and Art’s Café, and even a bakery co-op: Arizmendi.

There are many great stores, like Wishbone, Tutti Frutti, Catherine Jane and Andronico’s for epicureans. And if you’re looking for entertainment, consider Blackthorn Tavern, Fireside Bar (formerly The Wishing Well) and the world-famous Le Video.

As you stroll through its next door neighbor the Outer Sunset, you’ll find the remarkable Stern Grove, Ocean Beach, many shops along Noriega and Taraval Streets, and finally the San Francisco Zoo.

The Sunset has great food, spacious homes, and easy access to the beach. Why go anywhere else?